Liner Notes

About friendship, much has been said. From the philosophers of ancient times to thinkers of the modern era, the attempts to define its nature are countless. And today, as the world is adapting to
both the benefits and the challenges of the digital age, social media make it easier than ever to form new relationships and call someone a friend.

At its core, however, the characteristics of true friendship have always been the same. Friends share your happiness and lift your spirits when you are down. They allow you to be your real self,
show your feelings, and make mistakes. But there is more to it than that. Friends enjoy your company as you enjoy theirs. Ultimately, friendship is a source of happiness.

In that sense, the artists who sing and play with the SAP Big Band on this album are far more than guests. They are the friends that have been invited to celebrate the band's 20th
anniversary.

From the first tune, where Nicole Metzger's powerful vocals convincingly convey the notion of Feeling Good, to the burning Fever that soprano Janice Dixon ignites on the closing track, this album
feels like it has been recorded by a group of friends. Baritone Marc Marshall delivers an unmistakably soulful rendition of Crazy Love, and Steffen Weber (tenor saxophone) explores the mournful
depths of remembering a friend who passed away on Goodbye Pork Pie Hat. On a happier note, try not to tap your feet when Konrad Hinsken (piano), Stephan Kirsch (trombone), and bandleader Thomas
Siffling (trumpet) join the band on Blues In My Shoes, and close your eyes when you listen to Corcovado to let Viviane de Farias (vocals) and Cris Gavazzoni (percussions) evoke the magic of a
starry night in Rio de Janeiro.

It has been observed that when silence stretches comfortably between people, they must be real friends. While this may be true, now is not the time to be silent. Play this album in your homes and
in your cars, on your stereos and your phones, with your families and friends, and play it loud while you sing along.

20 years of corporate big band jazz, delivered in the spirit of friendship – this is no small feat. I am proud of what the band has achieved and wish them every success for what lies ahead.